The days are growing longer and the weather is warming up. After months of cold and dreary winter weather, summer is almost here. Preparing for long days at the beach or afternoons on the lake probably means shopping for a new bikini and cover up, but are you thinking about how you will protect your skin?
Scrolling through Instagram, you see girls with perfect tans and hair. Glowing tans look healthy. They give the illusion of a perfect summer spent in the sun on the beach and luxurious vacations.
Everyone wants a deep bronzed glow and sun-kissed hair, but at what cost? Spending hours in the sun can do serious damage to your skin and hair. Between skin cancer and sun spots, tanning can do more harm than good.
Luckily, there are simple ways to protect your skin and still get the healthy glow of your dreams.
Sunscreen
This is hands down the easiest way to stay safe in the sun. Purchase a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects you from UVA and UVB rays with at least SPF 30. This will prevent burns and protect your skin from damage.
Use sunscreen the right way
Are you using sunscreen properly? Unsurprisingly, it’s not enough to throw on sunscreen last minute as you head out the door. Start applying sunscreen 30 minutes before you go in the sun.
Swap out your normal moisturizer for one with SPF
Sun damage isn’t only a concern in the summer. You should be wearing SPF all year. By picking up a moisturizer with SPF in it you can protect your skin everyday without extra effort.
Reapply sunscreen often
How often do you put on sunscreen? Putting it on once in the morning is not enough. Reapply it at least every two hours or after you sweat or swim.
Self Tanner
You don’t have to risk damaging your skin for a good tan. Self tanner is a safe alternative to a natural tan. Between lotions and sprays, you can get your perfect tan without spending hours in the sun.
Hair Protection
Your skin isn’t the only part of your body that is damaged with sun exposure. The sun can dry out your hair and dull your color. Before you go in the sun, protect your hair with a UV spray.
Avoid peak hours in the sun
The easiest way to avoid sun damage is to simply stay out of the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Stay inside or seek cover under an umbrella or overhang.
Cover up
Another easy way to protect yourself is to wear layers. Protect your hair and face with a hat. Wear a long-sleeved cover-up to protect your arms. Keep sunglasses on to avoid straining your eyes.
Want to know more about your skin?
There’s no reason to avoid the sun altogether, but there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself. A tan just isn’t worth the risk of skin cancer or permanent damage to your skin. Contact us at Rejuvenation Laser and Skin Center in Vienna, WV for an evaluation on the condition of your skin.